harsh response

USAGE SUMMARY

"harsh response" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a strong reaction to something. For example: "The president's harsh response to the protestors was met with outrage from the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I received a harsh response from Mozilo," Gnaizda told me.

The New Yorker

Houellebecq's past cinematic endeavours have met with a harsh response.

The Guardian - Books

That statement draws a harsh response from Mr. Cain, the flight director.

The New York Times - Arts

The march, planned for Thursday, risks provoking a harsh response from the security forces.

The Guardian

There's no doubt the destruction of Randolph was a harsh response.

The New York Times

Manipur's harsh response to his planned visit has inflamed Naga secessionists.

The Economist

In such a climate, even an inadvertent error can result in a harsh response.

The New York Times

With hindsight, it began after Tibetan riots in 2008 drew a harsh response.

The Economist

The military's harsh response may be fueling, rather than dampening, the insurgency.

The New York Times

Mr. Karzai's increasingly harsh response to American initiatives in recent years has struck some officials as verging on paranoia.

The New York Times

The government's harsh response, which left thousands injured and five dead, has blighted its image around the world.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harsh response", consider the specific context and ensure that the severity of the response is justified by the preceding action or event.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the phrase "harsh response" in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "severe reaction" or "strong retort" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh response" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes a reaction that is severe or disproportionate. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh response" is a frequently used phrase, as demonstrated by Ludwig AI, to describe a severe or disproportionate reaction, predominantly in News & Media contexts. It functions as a noun phrase and carries a neutral to formal register. To enhance your writing, consider using synonyms like "severe reaction" or "strong retort" for variety and ensure the severity of the response aligns with the context. Be mindful of overuse and consider the implications of labeling a response as "harsh", as it suggests disapproval or concern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severe reaction

Emphasizes the intensity and seriousness of the reaction.

strong retort

Suggests a forceful and immediate verbal reply.

firm rebuttal

Indicates a resolute and often formal rejection of an argument or accusation.

forceful answer

Highlights the power and conviction behind the reply.

stiff opposition

Focuses on the resistance and inflexibility of the opposing viewpoint.

vehement protest

Conveys a passionate and intense expression of disapproval.

cutting remark

Indicates a response designed to wound or offend.

bitter condemnation

Implies a deeply resentful and strong disapproval.

disproportionate reprisal

Suggests the response was excessive and unjustified.

overzealous retaliation

Implies an overly enthusiastic and possibly inappropriate form of revenge.

FAQs

How is "harsh response" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "harsh response" is usually employed to describe a severe reaction to an action or statement. For example, "The government's "harsh response" to the protests drew international criticism".

What are some alternatives to using "harsh response"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "severe reaction", "strong retort", or "firm rebuttal" as alternatives to "harsh response".

What implications does the term "harsh response" carry?

A "harsh response" implies a reaction that is disproportionately severe, often suggesting a lack of empathy or understanding. It can also indicate an authoritarian approach.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use "harsh response"?

The phrase "harsh response" is most appropriate when describing situations involving conflict, disagreement, or disciplinary action, particularly when the reaction seems excessive or unjustified. It is frequently used in "news and media" reports about political events or legal proceedings.